A SPORTS hall and adult learning centre in Skelton are fighting fit for the future after a s500,000 revamp.

The former De Brus Schools old sports hall has been completely refurbished, meaning great facilities for fencers, among others.

A new adult learning centre has also been created, offering courses including arts and crafts, cooking and IT.

It marks a happy end to a saga dating back several years.

In 2004, the Gazette reported how locals were up in arms at plans to demolish Skeltons youth and community centre to help pay for the new Freebrough College.

A change of heart saw the sports hall and youth centre retained - and now the revamped facilities have been officially opened.

Redcar and Cleveland Councils Cabinet member for health and social wellbeing, Councillor Helen McLuckie, said: This is a great day for Skelton. We have always wanted to retain the sports hall and now weve got a modern, bright facility that can act as a real magnet for community involvement.

The sports hall has space for five-a-side football, badminton, volleyball, basketball and netball, plus improved changing facilities. It will be open seven days a week.

The new adult learning facility, built with s400,000 from the Learning and Skills Council, features state-of-the-art IT facilities and a fully-fitted training kitchen that can accommodate up to 20 students.

Cllr McLuckie added: One of the most exciting aspects to this project is that we now have a number of agencies, including the Youth Service, Adult Learning, Connexions and the Youth Inclusion Programme, all based on one site offering learning and leisure opportunities for the whole community.

For details on the sports halls availability and charges, plus details of day and evening classes, call the Adult Learning Service on 01642 490409.